Industries and Wealth of the Principal
Points in Rhode Island, being the city of Providence, Pawtucket, Central
Falls, Woonsocket, Newport, Narragansett Pier, Bristol & Westerly.

New York: A. F. Parsons Publishing Co., 1892

p. 232 - 235:

WOONSOCKET

Although extending back nearly two and a-half centuries, there is little
interest connected with the history of Woonsocket up to within a comparatively
recent period. It was, in fact, an insignificant place fifty years
ago. From an unimportant village it has grown during the lifetime
of a generation to be one of the great industrial centers of the country.
The value of the cotton and woolen goods manufactured here annually is
something enormous. Of the latter, Woonsocket produces more than
any other town or city in the United States, while in the former industry
it is excelled by few. There are now in operation in this place seventeen
cotton-mills and seven woolen-mills with an aggregate capital of about
$5,000,000.

Among the other important industries are the manufacture of rubber goods,
machinery, tools, castings, wringing machines, thread, silk, jewelry, sash,
blinds, doors, etc.

Altogether there must be upward of ten thousand hands employed in the
manufacture of textile fabrics alone in this town.

The population has more than doubled in the last two decades.
The number of inhabitants in 1870 was 11, 527, and this had increased to
16,053 in 1880. The census of 1890 gives the population as 20,830,
but it is supposed to have been much more than that, being now not far
from 25,000.

Woonsocket as a manufacturing center owes its prominence to the magnificent
water-power within its limits. The immense fall of water on the Blackstone
River, which has long been regarded as a great natural curiosity, affords
unlimited power. It is some twenty feet in height, and is almost
perpendicular, the force of the volume of water being broken on its way
down by huge rocks. The fall of water upon the precipice, through
a succession of ages, has caused numerous excavations in the rocks, all
of which are smooth and circular, and some of the these are sufficiently
large to hold several hogsheads.

The town takes its name from the falls. As the word indicates,
the name is of Indian origin. The original form was 'Woone-Suckete',
from 'Woone', said to mean thunder, and 'Suckete', meaning mists.

The first settlers in the immediate vicinity of Woonsocket Falls were
Richard Arnold and Samuel Comstock. The exact date of their appearance
here is a matter of conjecture, but is generally supposed to have been
early in the second half of the seventeenth century, for there was a sawmill
(the first venture of the kind) built on the river in 1666 by the former.
The early settlers planted themselves in the most promising sites by the
Blackstone and began at once to turn to account the bounties of nature
so generously provided. Notwithstanding the facilities at their control,
but little progress was made in the new settlement for some time.
As the soil was fertile and fuel abundant, the community, whose wants were
few, prospered fairly well, however. Richard Arnold, who erected
the pioneer sawmill in Woonsocket, acquired considerable wealth, and at
his death his four sons came into possession of quite a large estate close
by the falls.

Other settlers, too, succeeded in placing their families in tolerably
comfortable circumstances, and the second generation saw considerable progress.
In the course of time, the little hamlet grew into a prosperous village,
which in 1867, was incorporated under a town form of government.

A distinctly noteworthy fact concerning the early inhabitants of this
place, as related by Mr. Richardson, the historian of Woonsocket, is, that
the people, unlike those of all the other New England settlements, were
not overmuch given to the exercise of piety. Indeed, it appears they
were for years without a church or house of prayer. It was not until
1718 that divine services began to be held here, and the initiative was
taken by the Society of Friends. With the exception of the Quaker
meeting-house, there was no other place of worship for more than a hundred
years. Referring to this subject Richardson says:
'Woonsocket became, not so much from the piety of the inhabitants as
from the natural advantages of its location, first a religious and after
an educational center of the large territory now comprised within the counties
of Worcester in Massachusetts and Providence in Rhode Island.'

In this connection it is worthy of remark, that the disciples of George
Fox were the first to move in the direction of introducing free schools,
although their efforts do not appear to have received the approbation such
a commendable project deserved; for we are informed that the plan of opening
a free school for all classes was defeated at first 'by a vote of the ignorant
backwoodsmen of Smithfield, many of whom were unable to write their names'.
Up to the close of the last century the opportunities afforded the youth
for acquiring even an elementary education hereabouts were very limited.
In 1800 the town of Smithfield voted the sum of $2,200 for the support
of twenty-four schools. It was not for some forty years later, however,
that the people fully awoke to the importance of public schools.
But the past half a century has witnessed remarkable progress in this direction,
speaking of which Richardson well says: 'The system of education
with the won has made a marked advancement since the introduction of public
schools. The rude and often ill-constructed schoolhouse has given
place to the present fine and convenient buildings, furnished with all
the modern appliances for the comfort and convenience of both teacher and
pupil. These excellent institutions are presided over by competent
and accomplished teachers, and the citizens of Woonsocket have just reason
to be proud of their present educational interests.'

photo on page 233: Main Street, Looking North, Showing Harris Block.

The town of Woonsocket was incorporated from parts of the towns of Cumberland
and Smithfield, in 1867. The section of the town lying to the east
of the river was for a hundred and thirty years previous to that, a village
in the town of Cumberland. In 1871 this was still further increased
by the addition of that portion of Smithfield which constituted West Woonsocket.
The Blackstone River, which flows directly through the business center
of the town, affords inexhaustible water-power and valuable sites for mills
and manufacturing plants, all of which have been greatly improved.
There is no place of its size in New England possessing better manufacturing
facilities or greater hydraulic power, and in none have these been applied
more advantageously.

Woonsocket lies in the heart of a fertile region and is distant sixteen
miles from Providence and thirty-seven from Boston. The town has
over seventy miles of streets, and is rapidly extending its corporate limits.
The Providence & Worcester Railroad runs through the town, and the
New York & New England connects it with Boston. It contains many
handsome public buildings and institutions.

The town has nine churches, a high school and eight lower schools, several
public halls and a free circulating library. The latter belongs to
the Harris Institute, connected with which are also a lyceum, reading-rooms,etc.

The town supports a daily and two weekly newspapers and has two opera
houses.

There are six national banks and five savings-banks in Woonsocket, and
they are all solid and substantial institutions.

The town contains several excellent hostelries too, and first-class
accommodations are provided for the local and traveling public.

As has been intimated, the surrounding country is very productive and
market-gardening and dairying are carried on extensively. The quantities
of fruits, vegetables, garden products generally, butter, eggs, etc., disposed
of annually, reach enormous proportions. Then again Woonsocket is
the center of an extensive retail and jobbing trade, and has a number of
handsome and flourishing establishments in the various mercantile lines
of business. Altogether the town presents a pleasing and lively appearance
and everybody seems busy. About half the population is of foreign
birth. This is accounted for by the large number of factories here.
Many of these are immense plants, and most of them are concentrated within
a very limited area, making one of the busiest industrial centers in the
country.

Among the largest cotton-mills may be named those of the Social Manufacturing
Company, the Clinton Manufacturing Company, the Woonsocket Mill and the
Woonsocket Yarn Company. The most extensive manufacturers of woolens
are the Harris Woolen Company, the Lippitt Woolen Company and the American
Worsted Company. Other big concerns are the Woonsocket Rubber Company,
the Bailey Wringing Company, the Woonsocket Spool and Bobbin Manufacturing
Company, and the H. C. Lazelle Loom Harness Manufactory, and numerous establishments
devoted to the production of machinery, castings, tools, builders' supplies,
etc.

p. 236:

WOONSOCKET NATIONAL BANK, No. 165 Main Street. -- The history
of the Woonsocket National Bank verifies the well-established fact that
a great financial institution, having men of conservative characteristics
and sound judgment at the helm, must surely become successful and prosperous.
One must go back nearly sixty-five years to arrive at the year when this
bank was incorporated, under the name of the Woonsocket Falls Bank, and
in 1865 it was reorganized under the national banking laws. It has
a capital stock of $200,000 and its officers and directors are as follows,
viz.: President, J. W. Ellis; cashier, L. W. Ballou; assistant cashier,
E. C. Francis; directors, Albert Jenckes, Latimer W. Ballou, John W. Ellis,
Cyrus Arnold, W. O. Bardon, Frederick Cook, Geo. Reuter, Jr., E. C. Francis
and C. B. Smith. Swinging a heavy capital controlled by founders
and promoters of unquestioned integrity and tried ability, it was not only
proved a pillar of strength in time of great financial necessity and fear,
but has upheld and fostered the material interests of the entire mercantile
and manufacturing community. Its watchwords have been prudence and
economy - prudence in investments, economy in expenses of handling business
- and from these two walls of strength has sprung a solid arch of prosperity
and profit. A bank so long established, and having gone so far in
its career with ever-growing success is, of course, an assurance of permanency;
but there is more than mere 'solidity', as the word goes, which has contributed
to its prosperity and popularity. Although founded upon a rock, it
has each twelve months been raised above the level of the year before,
and has now accumulated a surplus of $170,000, with undivided profits of
$9,500. The Woonsocket National does a regular legitimate banking
business in deposits, loans, collections and exchange; receives the accounts
of corporations, firms and individuals on the most favorable terms; remits
collections through its chains of correspondents, at lowest rates; furnishes
bills of exchange and letters of credit available in all parts of the world,
and renders thorough satisfaction to all customers. Dividends are
declared on the first days of April and October, and have averaged 8 per
cent from the start, while the bank never passed a dividend in its whole
history. It has recently taken possession of its new and elegant
banking-rooms in Harris Block, No. 165 Main Street, where every modern
facility is afforded for the prosecution of an extensive banking business.
The president, Mr. Ellis, is one of the most substantial citizens of Woonsocket,
prominently identified with its commercial growth and prosperity.
The cashier, Hon. Latimer W. Ballou, is one of the best-known men in the
State, representing his district in Congress from 1875 to 1881, and has
been connected with this bank since 1850; while he is also treasurer of
the Woonsocket Institution of Savings, and the oldest bank official in
continuous service in the State.

p. 236:

WOONSOCKET INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS, Harris Institute, No. 165 Main Street.
-- The great accretion of capital as represented by the official
statement of the Woonsocket Institution for Savings abundantly demonstrates
the thrift and prosperity of the people of this city, in which this institution
is by far the largest, as well as the oldest, of its kind, while it bears
favorable comparison as to size, management and stability, with any in
Providence or Boston. It was incorporated in 1845; the most eminent
and wealthy citizens were chosen as trustees, and the bank began business
under the most favorable auspices, which has been followed by a career
of unexampled prosperity and marked by a rigid observance of the soundest
principles governing banking and finance. The banking-rooms are eligibly
located in Harris Block, No. 163 Main Street, and a very large business
is done here smoothly and efficiently, reflecting the highest credit upon
the executive officers. Deposits from $1 up to $2,000 are received,
upon which a handsome interest is paid; the policy of the management is
security first, a large income being a secondary consideration, while,
as is well known, its investments are all thoroughly sound, and the bank
is one that to the fullest degree invites the patronage of the public at
large. It now has some 10,500 depositors, and its deposits amount
to upwards of $5,000,000, with a surplus of $350,000. This is a showing
hard to match. The officers and trustees are as follows, viz.:
President, Lyman A. Cook; treasurer, Latimer W. Ballou; assistant treasurer
and secretary, Charles E. Ballou; board of trustees: Latimer W. Ballou,
Geo. Reuter, Jr., Dexter Clark, Frederick Cook, Geo. W. Jenckes, Geo. M.
Welles, Edwin Aldrich, Austin S. Cook, Fancello G. Jillson, Chas. E. Ballou,
Charles F. Ballou, Chas. H. Darling, John W. Ellis, Chester B. Smith, Chas.
E. Thomas, E. Charles Francis, Ira B. Cook, Geo. H. Mowry; board of investment,
Lyman A. Cook, Ira B. Cook, Dexter Clark, Austin S. Cook, Chas. H. Darling,
E. Charles Francis, Chas. F. Ballou. The president, Mr. Cook, is
one of our best-known and most public-spirited citizens, prominently identified
in many ways with the commercial growth and financial prosperity of the
city. The treasurer, Hon. Latimer W. Ballou, is the oldest bank official
and most experienced financier in Rhode Island, having filled this position
since the organization of the bank in 1845, and also been cashier of the
Woonsocket National Bank for a period of forty-two years; while his services
have also received appreciative acknowledgment in other fields of
usefulness. He was representative in Congress form the second district
for three terms, 1875 to 1881, and, although now in his eighty-first year,
is still faithfully and accurately performing the responsible duties devolving
upon him, and enjoys the esteem of his fellow-men in all the various relations
of life. The board of trustees are representative and respected citizens,
and under its sound and able guidance this institution is recognized as
Woonsocket's best financial bulwark, ever a source of pride and profit
to the community.

p. 237:

CURRIER & GUILD, (Successors to John Currier) Foreign and Domestic
Dry Goods, Cloaks and Small Wares, No. 104 Main Street. --
For some forty-five years the well-known dry goods store of Currier &
Guild (Successors to John Currier), No. 104 Main Street, has been in existence,
and during the entire period has been steadily growing in popularity and
patronage. It is the oldest establishment of the kind in Woonsocket,
and is par excellence the ladies' wear emporium of this city. The
assortment here displayed is exceedingly large and embraces everything
in foreign and domestic dry goods, cloaks, dress fabrics, laces and feminine
finery, and the prices prevailing are remarkably low. Goods are marked
down to rock bottom figures in the various departments, exceptional bargains
being offered in wash fabrics, cottons, domestics, flannels, etc.; and
every article sold is warranted to be absolutely as represented.
The premises occupied are spacious, commodious and attractively fitted
up. The store is lighted by electric-light, is equipped with patent
cash carrier service, and is provided with all conveniences for shoppers,
while fifteen or more courteous assistants attend to the wants of patrons.
The stock, which is extensive and complete, includes superb silks, satins,
plushes and cashmeres, pretty patterns in ginghams and fancy calicoes,
elegant cloaks, wraps and shawls, etc., laces, embroideries, ribbons and
dress trimmings, corsets, underwear, hosiery, gloves, notions and small
wares in great variety; also umbrellas and parasols, ladies' and gents'
furnishings, cottons, linens, sheetings, towelings and staple dry goods
generally. This business was established in 1847, by John Currier,
who conducted it up to January, 1891, when he died and was succeeded by
his son, John G. Currier and James Guild, the present proprietors, by whom
it has since been continued with uninterrupted success. Mr. Currier,
the younger, is a gentleman in the prime of life and a native of Woonsocket.
He has been the efficient chief of police of this city for ten years, and
stands high in commercial circles and in social life. Mr. Guild,
his partner, who is also a comparatively young man, was born in Scotland
and has resided in this city for a number of years. Both are men
of energy and enterprise, and are, in a word, well endowed with the qualities
that bespeak success in the business world.

p. 237:

PROVIDENCE CLOTHING COMPANY, Men's and Boys' Clothing, Hats, and Men's
Furnishing Goods, Trunks, Etc., Longley Building, Corner of Main and High
Streets. -- The establishment of the Providence Clothing Company,
located at the corner of Main and High Streets, is one of the most creditable
commercial features of the city and worthy of the most commendable notice.
The proprietor, Mr. D. J. Snyder, is a native of New York State, and came
to Woonsocket five years ago. His experience in the clothing industry
extends over a period of fourteen years, and his knowledge of the trade
is of the most thorough character. In October, 1887, he established
business at No. 235 Main Street, beginning upon a very small scale, and
with limited facilities, but through the indomitable energy brought to
bear by him the favorable attention of the public was in time gained, and
his patronage increased rapidly in volume and influence. In 1891
the need of more capacious quarters became imperative, and the removal
to the present quarters was effected. Here the store occupied has
a frontage of 42 feet, a depth of 103 feet, and the plate grass front is
the largest in New England. The interior is handsomely appointed
with hardwood fixtures, is lighted by electricity, and equipped with all
modern improvements for the comfort of customers. The establishment
is in fact the acknowledged leader in its line in Rhode Island. An
immense stock is carried. A leading specialty is made of the finest
clothing put on the market - in every respect the equal of custom make
- while the styles are always the leaders; correct, elegant and fashionable.
In addition to clothing there is also a splendid display of gentlemen's
furnishing goods, men's, youths' and boys' hats and caps and a superior
line of trunks and traveling bags. From ten to twelve clerks and
assistants are employed through the week, and on Saturday nights the number
is increased to from fifteen to twenty. Mr. Snyder is a member of
the Merchants' Association, several fraternal organizations, and is active
in promoting all legitimate business or social enterprises.

p. 237:

RHODE ISLAND FURNITURE COMPANY, Complete House Furnishers, No. 138 Main
Street. -- For reliable goods, square dealing and reasonable prices,
the Rhode Island Furniture Company enjoys a reputation second to none in
Woonsocket, and a trade at both wholesale and retail reaching throughout
this section of Rhode Island. Although sales are effected either
for cash or under the instalment system of easy purchase, customers do
not have to pay, either directly or indirectly, for extravagant commissions
and expenses for agents, collectors and others; for the deferred payment
plan is not pushed in any way, all sales being made on the spot, and credit
is only extended with discretion to duly recommended patrons. The
company is certainly headquarters for the finest descriptions of durable
and thoroughly serviceable furniture, carpets, and every article used for
housekeeping from the bedroom to the kitchen, and on the premises is to
be seen a heavy and complete, though carefully chosen stock, the chief
lines of which are some elegant parlor, chamber and dining-room suites,
richly upholstered in the latest styles; beds and bedding, hall stands,
boudoirs, kitchen furniture and utensils, house-furnishing goods of every
kind; standard makes of stoves, ranges and furnaces, Brussels, ingrain
and tapestry carpets of the most recent introduction; oil and floor cloths,
mattings, etc. The enterprise was established in January, 1892, by
the present proprietors, Mr. Fred B. Weeks, formerly of the Weeks Furniture
Company, and Mr. Austin S. Cook, formerly of the Social Manufacturing Company.
The premises utilized comprise a three-story building, 20 x 100 feet in
dimensions, and six competent assistants find regular employment.
Mr. Weeks and Mr. Cook are natives of Woonsocket and connected with a number
of business and financial enterprises here, Mr. Cook being also a member
of several of our leading fraternal orders.

p. 238:

WOONSOCKET LUMBER COMPANY, Dealers in Lumber and Building Material of
all Kinds, Lumber for Mill Purposes a Specialty, Office and Yard, No. 189
North Main Street. -- One of the most extensive lumber businesses
in Woonsocket is that conducted by the Woonsocket Lumber Company, whose
office and yard are situated at No. 189 North Main Street. Although
founded so recently as June 1, 1891, the undertaking has speedily become
a leading source of supply for builders, contractors, carpenters, coach-builders,
furniture and other manufacturers in this section of the country.
The business is conducted at both wholesale and retail, from car-load lots
to small quantities, and supplies are received direct from the finest forest
lands in the Northern, Southern, and Western States, by the New York and
New England and Providence and Worcester Railroads. Owing to the
many special facilities the company possess for procuring their shipments
from owners of timber-lands upon the most advantageous terms, they are
enabled to offer to the trade some very substantial inducements as to prices,
quality and delivery, and to this fact is mainly attributable the distinct
success with which they have met. Hard and soft building lumber of
all kinds, also, is largely dealt in, such as pine, spruce, hemlock, ash,
oak, shingles, fence posts, whitewood, etc., as well as various fancy hardwoods
for cabinet-work, including cherry, mahogany, walnut, quartered oak, etc.,
while building materials are also handled, the chief lines being lime,
cement, plaster, lath, hair, drain pipe, fire and other brick, tiles, slates,
chimney pots, etc. In addition to supplying the building trade, the
company make a specialty of meeting the full requirements of sawing, planing
and molding mills, with lumber and timber of the right kinds in any quantities.
The office is neatly fitted and well arranged, and the yard covers an area
of two and a-half acres. Here is kept in stock over a million feet
of hard and soft lumber, logs, etc., well seasoned and ready for use, ten
competent assistants being regularly employed, and eight teams maintained
for delivery purposes. The treasurer of the company is A. W. Buckland,
who is a gentleman of middle age, and was born in the town of Washington,
Ohio. He has been an esteemed resident of Woonsocket for the past
twenty-two years, is president of the Woonsocket Electric Power and Light
Company, trustee of the Producers' Savings Bank, and is a prominent dentist
here. The manager is Mr. D. B. Clark, a native of this city, still
a young man, and is a member of several leading societies in town.

p. 238:

F. A. COLWELL, Manufacturer of Plain and Fancy Paper Boxes, American
Block, No. 129 Main Street. -- An industry that has grown to
very extensive proportions since its inception is that of the manufacture
of paper boxes, and a leading house engaged in this field of production
is that of Mr. F. A. Colwell, whose office, salesroom and factory are located
in the American Block. This enterprise was founded in 1870, upon
a small scale, by Palmer Brown, and after a number of changes in the management,
the present proprietor, Mr. Colwell, succeeded to the control in 1881.
Under his direction the business has rapidly expanded, and the extensive
trade that has accrued is derived from all parts of Rhode Island, Massachusetts
and Connecticut. The commodious premises occupied have an area of
14,000 square feet. The works are equipped with the most improved
machinery, operated by steam-power, and employment is found for sixty experienced
hands. Mr. Colwell manufacturers all kinds of plain and fancy boxes,
making a leading specialty of shoe-boxes, and the factory has a productive
capacity of 10,000 boxes daily. The facilities of the house are complete
in every respect, orders of any magnitude can be promptly filled, while
the prices which rule are of a character to successfully challenge competition.
Mr. Colwell is a native of Manville, R.I., and has resided in Woonsocket
fifteen years. He is a prominent member of the Order of Odd Fellows
and other organizations, and is also identified with a number of business
enterprises, all of which conduce to the best interests of the community.

p. 238:

J. PROULX & CO., Stoves, Ranges and House Furnishings, Nos. 64 and
68 Arnold Street. -- This very successful enterprise was established
in 1885 by Messrs. Bouvier and L'Esperance, and in 1886 Mr. J. Proulx was
admitted into partnership, in 1888 this latter gentleman succeeded to sole
control of affairs and very shortly after he was joined by his son, Mr.
Charles S. Proulx, the worthy senior being a thoroughly practical plumber
and gasfitter. Every description of fine furniture of the latest
styles, carpets, rugs, and house-furnishing goods in general are dealt
in, as also the standard makes of stoves, furnaces and heaters, while the
firm are agents for the celebrated 'Quaker' and Prize Model ranges, of
which there have been over five hundred sold in this city and vicinity.
Besides being extensive dealers in the goods named, the firm undertake
a full line of plumbing, gas and steam fitting, sheet-iron, copper, tin
and zinc work; including the fixing of hot-air flues, etc., drainage, ventilation,
all kinds of sanitary plumbing, tin-roofing, spouting, guttering, etc.,
and jobbing and repairing of every description, the best work being executed
promptly and accurately. The whole of the goods handled are of the
latest introduction and are of an uniformly reliable and durable nature;
sales are effected either for cash or on the instalment plan. The
premises comprise a handsomely fitted double store, 46 x 61 feet in size,
a basement of like proportions and an adjoining building in the rear used
for storage. A large and very complete stock of carefully chosen
goods is always carried, affording patrons an abundance of choice in each
line, and the business in its various departments furnishes regular employment
for ten skilled assistants. Mr. J. Proulx was born in Canada, coming
to Woonsocket thirty-nine years ago, and is a member of several French
societies and fraternal orders. Mr. Charles S. Proulx is a native
of this city and still a young man.

p. 239:

PRODUCERS' SAVINGS BANK, Foss Memorial Building, No. 185 Main Street.
-- One of the noteworthy and deserving public institutions of Woonsocket
is the Producers' Savings Bank, whose offices are located in Foss Memorial
Building, No. 185 Main Street. This bank was incorporated in 1868,
under the laws of the State of Rhode Island, and from its inception down
to the present time, its officers and trustees have included many of the
most substantial and best-known citizens of this community. Its present
board are as follows, viz: President, Reuben O. Cooke; secretary
and treasurer, Samuel P. Cook; board of trustees, Edwin B. Miller, Alonzo
D. Vose, William O. Mason, Geo. C. Wilder, Francello G. Jillson, George
Worrall, Samuel P. Cook, Chas. E. Thomas, John A. C. Wightman, Alphonso
W. Buckland, Jonathan B. Farnum, Chas. H. Horton. This is purely
a savings bank, conducted in the interest of the people and recognized
as an important factor in developing a spirit of economy and thrift in
the community. It also furnishes administrators, guardians, trustees
of churches, lodges and other societies, a safe and convenient repository
for their funds, where a moderate rate of interest can be realized.
Being conducted on sound business principles, and its management being
characterized by foresight and judicious enterprise, coupled with ability
and integrity, its history from the start has been a record of steady progress
and prosperity. A flourishing business is transacted, giving evidence
of constant and substantial increase annually, while its connections are
of the most desirable character. Its management is in the hands of
gentlemen of sound judgment and tried ability, whose names alone are of
a sufficient guarantee of the solvency of the institution. The president,
Mr. Reuben O. Cooke, is a Massachusetts man by birth and training, who
came to Woonsocket in 1843. He is still in the prime of life, a director
of the Producers' National Bank, a member of the F. and A. M. 32, the Mystic
Shrine and other organizations, and eminently popular in the business world.
The secretary and treasurer, Mr. Samuel P. Cooke (sic), is also cashier
of the Providence National Bank, and a young man of large financial experience,
wide acquaintance, and of high social repute.

p. 239:

PRODUCERS' NATIONAL BANK, Foss Memorial Building, No. 185 Main Street.
-- One of the oldest and most flourishing of Rhode Island's fiscal
corporations is the Producers' National Bank, of this city, whose banking-rooms
are in the Foss Memorial Building, No. 185 Main Street. It has been
in existence for forty years, its financial history, during such period,
being one long story of enduring prosperity, achieved as the reward of
able and skillful management, and of the constant maintenance of the most
rigid principles, having for their vital element honor and integrity.
The bank was organized in 1852, under the State laws of Rhode Island, and,
in 1865, became a national bank, with a capital stock of $200,000, and
there is now a surplus of $80,000. The officers and board of directors
are as follows: President, Chas. E. Thomas; cashier, Samuel P. Cook;
directors, Chas. E. Thomas, George C. Wilder, Jervis Cook, Chas. H. Horton,
R. O. Cooke, George Batchelor, J. B. Farnum, Sylvester S. Aldrich, Samuel
P. Cook.. The president, Mr. Thomas, is a native of this State, superintendent
of the Globe Mills, and interested in several other enterprises, and he
is one of the ablest and most esteemed of our local financiers. The
cashier, Mr. Cook, born in this city, entered the bank in 1870 as a clerk,
and through his ability won steady promotion. In 1885 he was appointed
to his present position, the duties of which he has filled in the most
creditable manner. Mr. Cook is also treasurer and secretary of the
Producers' Savings Bank, and is prominent in both business and social circles.
The Producers' National Bank carried on a general banking business, and
its correspondents are the First National Bank, New York; Merchants' National
Bank and Phoenix National Bank, Providence; National Redemption Bank, Boston;
Fifth National Bank, Providence; and the Old National Bank of that city.
Prompt, obliging, and efficient in all their dealings with the public,
the officers of this bank are naturally popular, and they maintain the
credit of the bank in both financial, commercial, and social life.

p. 239:

WOONSOCKET STEAM LAUNDRY, F. E. Cook, Proprietor, Cook's Hill, off Main
Street. -- The largest and most popular institution of the
kind in this city is that of the Woonsocket Steam Laundry, located on Cook's
Hill, off Main Street. This was founded in 1897. When Mr. Cook
took possession in 1890, he at once put in an entire new plant, introducing
many new improvements, and to-day the establishment is one of the finest
to be found in the country. The premises used comprise a building,
50 x 120 feet in dimensions, and a smaller building. The ironing
and starch room is 50 x 75 feet in dimensions, the dryroom, 15 x 20 feet,
and having a capacity for drying 200 shirts an hour; on the second floor
is a hot water tank, having a holding capacity of 2,000 gallons.
The mechanical equipment includes all the patent and most improved machinery
used in the trade, embracing patent irons, heated by electricity, wire
connections for the same being over each ironing-board. In 1890 the
output of the laundry amounted to but 800 shirts a week; the output, since
Mr. Cook assumed management, now amounts to from 1,800 to 2,500 shirts
a week, while he has a capacity for turning out 5,000 shirts. From
twenty to twenty-five hands are employed. Three delivery wagons are
kept in operation, one here in Woonsocket, the others at the branches in
Providence and Pawtucket. Orders may be sent by telephone, call No.
5122-5. Mr. Cook is a native of Woonsocket, born in 1854, and is
favorably known to his fellow-citizens. He is a prominent member
of several fraternal societies, is a young man of excellent business capacity,
and is worthily sustaining the high reputation of the house.

p. 240:

JOHN F. MULVEY, Steam and Gasfitter and Plumber, also Dealer in Steam,
Gas and Water Pipe Fittings, Plumbing Materials, Mill Supplies, Etc., Sole
Agent for Woonsocket for the Victor Heater, Telephone Call, 5232-5, Office
No. 141 Main Street, Works in the Rear. -- Of late years plumbing
has become a science, and upon its proper study and application depend
the solution of many questions of drainage, ventilation and sanitary conditions.
In these days of complexities of city life, the plumber has become essential
in the highest degree to our comfort and health, and the necessity of employing
only those who are thoroughly qualified in every department of the business
is apparent to every one. The acknowledged leader in this line in
Woonsocket is Mr. John F. Mulvey, whose fine, first-class establishment
is eligibly located at No. 141 Main Street. This gentleman is an
expert steam and gasfitter and plumber, and also an extensive dealer in
steam, gas and water fittings; plumbing materials, mill supplies, etc.;
and sole agent in Woonsocket for the Victor Heater. He established
his business here on the 27th of May, 1887, and has sustained a most enviable
reputation for superior work and fair and honorable business methods.
His workshop is fully equipped with all modern machinery and facilities
for pipe-cutting, etc., enabling him to cut pipe from 1/8 to 6 inches and
thread the same; while the motor is a steam-engine of 25-horse power, and
steady employment is given to some thirty skilled workmen. He also
operates a brass foundry in connection, for the manufacture of brass repairs,
patterns, and all kinds of connections in bronze, brass and zinc.
Special attention is given to house drainage and ventilation, and contracts
are entered into in all parts of the country for fitting up mills and factories
for steam, gas and water. Estimates are cheerfully furnished for
the same, and all work is skillfully and promptly executed, and guaranteed
satisfactory. The Victor Heater is a leading specialty of the house,
and enjoys a high reputation and a wide-spread sale based entirely upon
its merits. The Victor is made entirely of Scotch cast-iron, and
constructed in such a manner as not to be affected by variations of temperature
and consequent expansion or contraction. It is now a well-established
fact that a cast-iron boiler will not rust out as quick as a wrought-iron,
and no low pressure boiler has ever been known to explode. The cast-iron
boiler does not want as frequent cleaning, is the lowest in price, and
the fire surface can be located to better advantage than in the wrought-iron.
It will be seen that in the Victor a large surface is located directly
over the fire and one foot of surface here is equal to three in any other
part of the boiler outside of the fire pot. Mr. Mulvey is also agent
for the Walworth Automatic Sprinkler, used in most mills of the State;
and is the manufacturer of the Mulvey & Greenhalgh Flushing Water-closet
Cistern, now in use in the largest rubber factory in the world. Special
discounts given to the trade, and orders by telephone No. 5232-3, by telegraph
or mail, for these and other specialties of the house, receive immediate
and careful attention. Mr. Mulvey is a native of Providence, R. I.,
and has worked at his trade in this city since 1870. He is a member
of the K. of P., the A. O. U. W., the Foresters, the Iron Hall and other
organizations, and stands deservedly high as an expert authority in this
business.

p. 240:

NEW YORK HAT STORE, M. Jacobson, Proprietor, Dealers in Hats, Trunks
and Gents' Furnishings, Nos. 18 and 184 Main Street. -- This
business enterprise was inaugurated by the present proprietor, M. Jacobson,
in 1871. The store occupied at No. 18, is 40 x 60 feet in dimensions,
and the proprietor also has in successful operation a branch house at No.
148 Main Street, which is 30 x 100 feet in dimensions. In the hat,
cap and furnishing department customers are at all times sure of finding
the latest and best styles in both imported and domestic productions, the
stock being large, complete and attractive, and the selections made with
all the taste and judgment for which Mr. Jacobson is noted. A specialty
of this house is custom-made shirts, which are made to order of the best
material and warranted to give satisfaction. Constant additions of
fresh goods, including all desirable novelties, enable the house to keep
steady pace with the changes of fashion, and to meet the wants of patrons
in the most satisfactory manner. The supply of trunks, bags and valises
is full and presents the widest possible range of selection. From
four to six courteous assistants are employed. Mr. Jacobson is a
native of Hamburg, Germany, but has been a resident of the United States
for thirty-eight years. He was a member of the 4th United States
Cavalry during our late war and was stationed at the United States Ordnance
Arsenal, Washington, D. C. He is now a member of Smith Post No. 9,
G. A. R., also a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., the K. of P., the
A. O. U. W., the Royal Arcanum and other societies.

p. 240:

JOHN F. CUNNINGHAM, Wholesale Dealer in Brandies, Gins, Wines, Etc.,
Direct Receiver of Kentucky Bourbon, Rye and Wheat Whiskies, Sole Local
Agent for 'The Anderson' Pure Rye Whiskey, Nos. 10, 11, 12 and 13 Monument
Square, and No. 1 Blackstone Street. -- This is an old and
honored concern. For a period of twenty-three years it has been conducted
by its founder, Mr. John F. Cunningham, who has gained a high reputation
for the purity and excellence of his goods. The premises occupied
comprise a store, 40 x 60 feet in dimensions, and a large storehouse in
Blackstone, Mass. A large stock of brandies, gins, wines, etc., is
kept constantly on hand, and Mr. Cunningham is also a direct receiver of
Kentucky Bourbon, rye and wheat whiskeys. He is sole agent in this
section for 'The Anderson', 'Nelson' and 'Blue Grass' whiskeys. In
all the above the stock is not limited, like so many, to a few brands and
vintages, but is a wide and comprehensive one, including many old and mellowed
wines and brandies difficult to obtain. These goods are eminently
popular for medicinal purposes, on account of their absolute purity and
uniform excellence, and sell largely to druggists as well as to leading
hotels, restaurants and retailers throughout New England. Mr. Cunningham
is a native of Ireland, but has been a resident of this country for about
forty years.

p. 241:

WOONSOCKET ELECTRIC MACHINE AND POWER COMPANY, Office and Works, No.
61 Front Street. -- The rapid adaptation of electricity for
lighting purposes by the American people is something phenomenal.
It needs no argument at the present day to prove its superiority over every
other artificial illuminant. The old adage of 'the survival of the
fittest' is exemplified in electric-lighting as well as in every other
department of trade and industry, and is especially applicable to the Thomson-Houston
system of electric arc and incandescent lamps, which is adopted by the
Woonsocket Electric Machine and Power Company, whose office and works are
located at No. 61 Front Street. This company was incorporated April
12, 1883, with a capital stock of $250,000, and is officered as follows,
viz.: President, A. W. Buckland; treasurer and general manager, L.
C. Lincoln; superintendent, Frank S. Pond; chief engineer, Alvin A. Jewell;
assistant engineer, John Green; directors, A. W. Buckland, L. C. Lincoln,
E. K. Ray, S. P. Cook, C. E. Thomas, James Murray, J. B. Farnum, Wm. Kent,
Oscar J. Morse. This company now have 283 arc and 4,775 incandescent
lights in use, with over 1,000 poles and 44 miles of arc wires, and over
40,000 pounds of incandescent wire in this city; while they supply Blackstone,
East Blackstone and Millville with both arc and incandescent lights.
Their plant comprises six acres of ground, eight buildings, and four tenement
houses; while the equipment embraces one Corliss engine of 700-horse power,
one Corliss engine of 200-horse power and four Armington & Sims engines
of 125, 50, 50 and 65-horse power respectively; also, two Corliss upright
boilers of 100-horse power each, and four horizontal boilers of 140-horse
power each; one water wheel of 252-horse power, and another of 70-horse
power; and eighteen dynamos, five of which are used for direct incandescent
lighting, four for alternating incandescent lighting, four for commercial
arc lighting, five for street arc lighting. Electric-motors are supplied,
as well as power for the same; and also rooms with heat and power for general
manufacturing purposes. The system here in use is really the most
simple, economical and effective, and commercially available of any yet
introduced. The large number of plants of other systems that have
been thrown out in this country and the Thomson-Houston system installed
in their place, is a fair criterion of their value. The expression
of a gentleman who made such a change and months afterward addressed a
letter to the company, tells the whole story. He says: 'It
is cheaper to purchase a Thomson-Houston plant than to operate any other
system as a gift.' The company here in Woonsocket have 123 street
lamps and 160 store lamps in operation, running the former all night, and
are giving unbounded satisfaction to the public; and the City Council has
lately given the company the contract for lighting the city for the next
five years. The management is in the hands of enterprising, public-spirited
citizens, like Dr. Buckland, the president, and expert authorities on electric-lighting,
like Mr. Lincoln, the treasurer and general manager; and the corporation
is recognized as one of those beneficial and praiseworthy institutions
that do credit to the new city.

p. 241:

LOGAN & SPROUL, Manufacturers of Moving and Party Wagons, Factory
and Office, Nos. 15 to 20 Worrall Street. -- The manufacture
of moving and party wagons and carryalls is an industry of ever-increasing
importance, furnishing a useful and lucrative field for the employment
of capital. The leading house in New England engaged in this line
is that of Messrs. Logan & Sproul, of this city, whose office and factory
are located at Nos. 15 to 20 Worrall Street. This enterprise was
founded some twenty years ago, upon a small scale, by H. C. Marsh, to whom
J. F. Fisher succeeded in 1884. In 1888 the present proprietors,
Messrs. D. Logan and C. K. Sproul came into the control, and have directed
affairs with a success reflecting very highly upon their ability, energy
and enterprise. Both gentlemen are natives of Nova Scotia, Canada's
fairest and most beautiful province, which juts into the great Atlantic,
and through which one may ride for sixty miles amid meadows and orchards
of fruit-trees. Mr. Logan left this 'land of the sweet-smelling mayflower'
twelve years ago for the United States, and his partner, Mr. Sproul, came
here eight years ago. Both are thoroughly practical carriage-makers
and ironworkers, and employ thirty skilled assistants. The plant
required for the industry is comprised in buildings and land, covering
an area of one and one-half acres. The machinery is driven by electric-power
and the mechanical equipment is complete in every particular. Both
light and heavy work is executed, the firm's specialty being the manufacture
of Boston truck, moving and party wagons and carryalls. The vehicles
made here are of the finest specimens of workmanship, and are unrivaled
for strength, durability, and general excellence. The trade extends
all through New England and New York State. The firm also do all
the work in their line required by the Woonsocket Street Railroad Company.
Prices and all desired information are furnished on application, by person
or by mail.

Illustration on p. 241: horse-drawn wagon.

p. 242:

FIRST NATIONAL BANK, No. 107 Main Street. -- There is no
more unfailing barometer of the spirit of progress and enterprise prevailing
in any community than the bank, sustaining as it does such close and important
relations to all interests, mercantile, industrial and agricultural, as
well as financial. The city of Woonsocket has every reason to be
proud of its banking institutions, which are solid and ably-conducted,
prominent among the number being the First National Bank, which occupies
spacious and elegantly appointed quarters in the new Granite Block, No.
107 Main Street. This bank was originally incorporated in 1851, as the
Railroad Bank, and was reorganized under the national banking laws of 1865.
It has stood steadfastly through all these years a great monied institution,
meeting all the obligations that press heavily upon banks in dark and panicky
times. Its principal characteristics are those which tend to inspire and
maintain success, to wit: ample capital, good connections, unlimited
backing, able management, the esteem of all in commercial circles, and
the highest standing in the financial world. The management has been
noted for that spirit of cautious enterprise and vigorous conservatism
which marks out new paths and follows them safely. These are among
the great factors that produce a sound and healthy bank. The cash
capital of the First National is $200,000, while its investments and operations
have been so satisfactory that a snug surplus of $100,000 has been accumulated.
It is a bank of issue, deposit and discount; while it negotiates loans
on approved collateral, furnishes bills of exchange and letters of credit
available in all parts of the world, and makes collections on all points
at lowest rates through its chain of correspondents, which include the
National Bank of Redemption, of Boston; and the Importers and Traders National
Bank, of New York. A valuable and increasing list of patrons is drawn
to its counters, the ability of the management and the high standing of
the officers and directors giving every guarantee of the intelligent conservation
of all interests committed to its care. Commercial and industrial
enterprises find in the First National a stanch friend and supporter, all
its influence being exerted in favor of their extension. The officers
and directors of this bank are as follows, viz: President, Joseph
E. Cole; vice-president, L. L. Chilson; cashier, R. G. Randall; assistant
cashier, James E. Cook; directors: Joseph E. Cole, L. L. Chilson,
R. G. Randall, J. E. Cook, Gilbert Darling, E. C. Delebarre, Aaron B. Warfield,
David Bass and Frederick T. Comee. The president, Mr. Cole, has long
been a power in the development of the commerce and industries of Woonsocket,
and has been at the head of this institution since 1875. He is also
president of the American Worsted Co., the Woonsocket Gas Co., and the
Peoples Savings Bank; the treasurer is of the Harris Woolen Co. The
cashier, Mr. Randall, has filled that position since 1853, and is also
treasurer of the Peoples Savings Bank, the American Worsted Co., the Woonsocket
Gas Co. and the Harris Institute; while the Board of Directors comprises
much of the solid business element of the city.

p. 242:

A. H. RANKIN & CO., Wholesale Commission Dealers in the G. H. Hammond
Co.'s Western Dressed Beef, also Dealers in Mutton, Lamb, Tripe, Pork Ribs
and Sausage, Commission House, No. 257 River Street. -- The
wholesale handling of beef and other meats occupies one of the first places
in the most important branches of commerce, and the leading house in Woonsocket
engaged in this line is that of Messrs. A. H. Rankin & Co., of No.
257 River Street. This business was founded in 1868, at Blackstone, Mass.,
under the firm-name of A. H. Rankin & Co., by Messrs. A. H. Rankin,
H. A. Wood and L. T. Gaskell. They began as retail dealers, and in
1874 became wholesalers. In 1881 Mr. Gaskell retired; Mr. Wood followed
in 1882, and in the latter year Mr. Rankin admitted to partnership his
brother, Mr. A. B. Rankin. In 1881 the business was transferred to
this city, the firm having been appointed receivers and wholesale commission
dealers in the G. H. Hammond Co.'s western dressed beef. The premises
occupied comprise a two-story building, 24 x 65 feet in dimensions, and
equipped with an ice-box having a capacity for holding forty tons of ice
and fifty head of cattle. The firm dispose of 3500 cattle and 1000
sheep yearly. Five men and six teams form the working force, a heavy
stock of the choicest dressed beef, mutton, lamb, tripe, pork ribs and
sausage is always carred on hand, and the trade is supplied at lowest market
prices. The Messrs. Rankin are natives of Pelham, Mass., are residents
of Blackstone, Mass., and members of the Woonsocket Business Men's Association.

p. 242:

WOONSOCKET BRUSH COMPANY, Successors to John W. Abbott, Brush Manufacturers,
No. 38 Allen Street. -- The oldest concern devoted to the manufacture
of brushes in Rhode Island is that of the Woonsocket Brush Company, No.
38 Allen Street. It was established about sixty years ago, by Aquilla
Cook, at Bellingham, Mass., and in 1850, was moved to this town.
In 1880 the business passed into control of John W. Abbott, who was succeeded
in 1884, by Messrs. P. E. and W. S. Thayer, the latter having bought out
the interest of P. E. Thayer, on June 1, 1892, and is now sole proprietor
and continuing the business with uninterrupted success. The company
turns out a superior class of brushes for cotton and woolen mills, print
works, jewelry manufacturers, etc., and the productions are in extensive
use. The goods made by the Woonsocket Brush Company have a widespread
reputation, being not surpassed for the purposes intended by any produced
in New England, and are in steady and growing demand throughout Rhode Island,
Massachusetts and Eastern Connecticut. The factory premises occupy
two commodious floors, and are equipped with ample steam-power, improved
machinery, etc., while twenty in help are employed. Brushes of all
kinds are made to order at short notice, and a large assortment is constantly
kept on hand, the specialties being brushes for manufacturers of textiles
and jewelry. Every article leaving this concern is warranted as to
make and material, while the prices charged by the company are of the most
reasonable character, and all orders are promptly and carefully filled.

p. 243:

H. JEFFREY & CO., Power Loom Harness and Reed Manufacturers, Allen
Street. -- This thriving and prosperous business was established
in 1875 by H. Jeffrey, who died in November, 1889, when his son Walter
assumed control, and has since conducted it for the estate of his father
under the firm-name that heads this sketch, with uninterrupted success.
They are manufacturers of power loom harness and reeds of a distinctly
superior kind, and their productions command extensive sale throughout
the United States. The manufacturing premises on Allen Street, near
Main, comprise three 50 x 50 foot floors, and are equipped with ample steam-power,
the latest improved machinery, etc., and twenty to twenty-five in help
are employed. The firm have splendid facilities in all respects,
and turn out a class of work of exceptional excellence. A large stock
of harness and reeds is constantly kept on hand here, and all orders are
promptly attended to, while the prices charged are of the most reasonable
character, being, in fact, notably low, merit of productions considered,
every article made here being fully warranted. Mr. Walter Jeffrey,
who is a gentleman of middle age, was born in Maine and has resided in
this city for a number of years. He is a practical loom harness manufacturer,
and a man of thorough experience, and all the indications are that the
business is bound to increase under his efficient management.

p. 243:

ENTERPRISE DYE WORKS, Mark Hough, Proprietor, Dyer and Bleacher of Woolen
and Worsted Yarns and Braid, No. 92 South Main Street. -- The
Enterprise Dye Works, located in this city at No. 92 South Main Street,
while controlling the major part of the trade here, now rank as one of
the oldest established in this section of the State, and they are widely
known for turning out a fine line of work, in all senses reliable, and
at fair and reasonable prices. The Enterprise Works are dyers and
bleachers of woolen and worsted yarns, braid and cotton yarns for backings
and slubbings. These yarns are bleached or dyed in all colors to
order, and the heavy volume of trade controlled, reaches throughout Rhode
Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, among manufacturers of textile fabrics
and cotton and woolen spinners. The dyes used, as well as the various
chemical compounds, are selected with scrupulous care, with a view to producing
bright, clear colors, that will last in fine condition as long as the fabric
itself, and the processes adopted are based upon the latest approved scientific
principles, so that the yarns sustain absolutely no injury in any respect,
and are not deteriorated in strength or tenacity, no inferior dying or
bleaching being undertaken. The business was founded by the present
sole proprietor, Mr. Mark Hough, at Pawtucket, in 1876, under the name
of Hough Bros. In 1884 the Enterprise Dye Works was founded.
The owner was enabled to embrace all the most improved appliances known
in the trade, for ensuring an uniformly high standard of productions, and
the new and elaborate plant laid down is as complete as it is possible
for a dying establishment to be at the present time. This plant is
contained in two spacious floors, each 40 x 100 feet in area, and
among other things it comprises two boilers of 60-horse power each, steam-power
machinery for fans, pumps, etc., and fourteen vats or color tubs.
The output of the works is sixteen thousand pounds of yarns in all colors
per week, and regular employment is furnished twenty workers, all skilled
in their respective departments. Mr. Mark Hough was born in England
in 1851, but has resided in the United States for the past thirty-six years,
and is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Good Fellows,
besides being prominent in the Masonic Fraternity. He has been actively
engaged as a practical dyer for over a quarter of a century, and personally
superintends the accurate and prompt fulfillment of all orders he undertakes.

p. 243:

MONUMENT HOUSE, L. W. Elliott & Co., Proprietors, Monument Square.
-- The Monument House was erected on the site of a building destroyed
by fire, in 1877, by Mr. L. W. Elliott, who has since conducted the hotel
as proprietor, and whose name has become a synonym for perfection in hotel
keeping the country over. The house is four-stories high, 42 x 160
feet in size, and contains seventy rooms. No luxury afforded in situation,
surroundings, modern conveniences or management in any hotel in the State
is lacking at the Monument House. It is pleasantly situated on Monument
Square, near to the depot and adjoining the business center, and is convenient
alike to the permanent patron, the commercial tourist and the transient
guest. The house is heated by steam, lighted by electric-lights,
and provided with electric call bells, while a fine biliard hall, barber-shop,
bar and cafe, and a well-equipped livery stable, are among the necessities
of modern hotel life here supplied for the accommodation of guests.
The cuisine of the house is worthy of special commendation, being under
the most expert management and kept up to the highest standard of excellence.
The dining-room has a seating capacity for 150 guests, and the house is
liberally patronized by our citizens, having over forty permanent borders,
besides a large and influential transient trade. Terms are placed
at the low rates of $2 per day, and a stay at this hotel is ever remembered
as a pleasant experience. Mine host Elliott is also lessee of the Woonsocket
Opera House, the finest hall for theatrical and operatic purposes in Rhode
Island. It was built at a cost of $65,000, in 1887, Willard Kent, architect.
It has a seating capacity of 1,500, the stage is 51 x 65 feet, and there
are six private boxes, three on each side of the stage. The building
is 82 feet high, 70 x 172 feet in dimensions, and constructed of brick
and terra-cotta in a thoroughly fireproof, ornate and substantial manner.
In its architectural appearance, as well as in its careful and expert management,
it is a credit to the city, and is liberally patronized by the best concert
and dramatic companies from New York and Boston, who find Woonsocket a
fine field for the exercise of their talent. Mr. Elliott is one of
the busiest men of the town, being a large property owner and prominent
in local affairs.

p. 244:

PEOPLES SAVINGS BANK, No. 167 Main Street. -- No savings
institution in Rhode Island deservedly enjoys a greater degree of confidence
than the Peoples Savings Bank, of this city. It was incorporated
in 1857, and from the start has been constantly availed of by the most
thrifty classes of the community as a safe and remunerative depository
for their savings. Its banking-rooms are desirably situated in the
new Granite Block, No. 167 Main Street, and contain every modern facility
for doing an extensive business, while the vault for the storage of books,
bullion and papers is both fire and burglar-proof, giving the greatest possible
security. Deposits of from $1 up to $2,000 are received, and interest
at 5 per cent, per annum is paid thereon. The bank now has no less
than 2,000 depositors, who have due them the sum of $1,175,000; while the
bank has a snug surplus of $50,000. The guidance of this popular
savings bank has ever been of the soundest and most conservative character.
The ablest and wealthiest citizens of Woonsocket have, without emolument
and at much personal self-sacrifice, devoted their time and talent to its
management, and no financial concern in the city makes a more representative
showing in its array of trustees. The list is as follows, viz:
Joseph E. Cole, President; R. G. Randall, treasurer; and Gilbert Darling,
Clinton Puffer, James S. Read, Bradford F. Knapp, David Bass, Joseph B.
Aldrich, Leroy L. Chilson, J. B. Farnum, Austin S. Cook, A. W. Buckland
and George M. Welles. The above are gentlemen prominent in every
walk of life. The president, Mr. Cole is also president of the First
National Bank, the Woonsocket Gas Company, and the American Worsted Co.;
treasurer of the Harris Woolen Co., and a tower of strength to any undertaking
with which he may be identified. The treasurer, Mr. Randall, is also
cashier of the First National Bank, secretary and treasurer of the Woonsocket
Gas Co., and treasurer of the American Worsted Co. and the Harris Institute
of Woonsocket. The business of this institution is steadily increasing,
while its solidity and security are commensurate with its patronage and
the confidence of the community keeps pace with both.

p. 244:

CITY LUMBER COMPANY, Dealers in Lumber, Moldings, Doors, Sashes and
Blinds, Brick, Lime Cement, Etc., Yard on River Street, near New York and
New England Railroad. -- One of the most extensive lumber and
building materials businesses in Woonsocket is that conducted by the City
Lumber Company, whose yard is situated on River Street, near the New York
and New England Railroad. This important enterprise was established
on June 1, 1882, by Mr. H. N. Brown and Chas. Genereaux. At Mr. Brown's
decease in 1889, the present company succeeded, the proprietors being Mr.
Charles Genereaux and Mr. George M. Welles. The chief lines of goods
dealt in are building lumber of all kinds, such as yellow and white pine,
spruce, hemlock, cedar, ash, oak, whitewood, walnut, poplar, chestnut posts,
shingles, clapboards, lath, etc., as well as moldings, doors, sash, frames,
blinds, brick, lime, cement and hair. These are procured in each
instance direct from mills, manufacturers and others, upon the most advantageous
terms, thereby enabling the company to offer to users throughout this section,
some substantial inducements as to prices, qualities and delivery. Shipments
are received by the New York & New England and New York, Boston &
Providence Railroads, whose cars upload in the yards. These latter,
covering an area of two acres, are provided with lumber sheds, etc., and
contain a very large and carefully selected stock of lumber, lime, cement,
etc., competent assistants being regularly employed around the premises,
and seven teams retained for delivery purposes, insuring prompt delivery.
Of the able proprietors, Mr. Charles Genereaux, who is a gentleman of middle
age, was born in Canada, but has resided in Woonsocket since childhood,
and is a member of the Business Men's Association, as well as of several
fraternal orders and French societies; while Mr. George M. Welles - also
a gentleman of middle age - is a native of Connecticut, having resided
in this city for the past twenty-seven years, and is trustee of the Peoples
Savings Bank, besides being on the Board of Investment of same, is a director
of the Gas Company of Woonsocket, and is vice-president of the Building
and Loan Association here, and a member of the Business Men's Association.

p. 244:

A. C. SIBLEY, Dealer in Lumber and Glass, and Manufacturer of Doors,
Sashes, Blinds, Moldings, Boxes and Cloth Boards, Etc., Mill, No. 172 Pond
Street. -- The lumber trade of the various sections of New
England has been aptly described to be one of the integral links in the
great chain of American commerce. Its important bearing upon the
commercial economy of the country is a manifest fact. The leading
representative of the industry in Woonsocket is Mr. A. C. Sibley, whose
lumber yard and planing-mill are located at No. 172 Pond Street.
Mr. Sibley was born in Oxford, Mass., came to this town fifteen years ago,
and in 1879 established the business which has since, under his personal
management, developed to such extensive and prosperous proportions.
The premises used for the industry cover an area of one acre, and here
is carried a stock of over 200,000 feet of hardwood, logs, lath, shingles,
clapboards, pine, hemlock, spruce, and building lumber of all kinds.
The mill is a two-story building, 50 x 110 feet in dimensions, with a wing
30 x 40 feet in size. The mill is equipped with the most improved
woodworking machinery, driven by a 100-horse power Corliss engine, and
the huge smokestack from the boiler-room is sixty-four feet in height.
Mr. Sibley has ten teams, employs thirty workmen, and executes planing,
sawing and jobbing of all kinds, making a specialty of sawing to order
flume and bridge planks. He deals in plain and cathedral glass, and
in short wood and kindlings, and manufactures a general line of doors,
sashes, blinds, moldings, boxes and cloth boards. Orders, large or
small, are given the same careful attention, and the most liberal terms
and lowest market prices are quoted in every instance. Mr. Sibley
is a gentleman of unqualified integrity, prominent in business circles,
and he has very materially advanced the best interests of this thriving
town.